While the FCC will open a limited window for displaced LPTV and translator stations to apply to operate on new channels, some stations may be forced off the air before the application window opens, which could potentially deprive tens of thousands of viewers of access to local TV signals as a result, NAB says.
NAB Seeks FCC Relief for LPTVs, Translators
NAB has asked the FCC to help alleviate the impact of the incentive auction on LPTV and translator stations. Under the current rules, LPTV and translator stations operating on their current channels must shut down if notified that they will cause interference to new wireless operations.
NAB’s letter requests the FCC allow LPTV and translator stations to apply for Special Temporary Authority to operate on alternative channels until the FCC processes displacement applications.
“To accommodate displaced LPTV and translator stations,” NAB said, “the commission directed the Media Bureau to open a limited window for displacement applications for new channels. This window will likely not open until early 2018. In the meantime, if a new 600 MHz licensee provides its 120-day notice and displaces LPTV or translator stations, those stations will have no opportunity to remain on the air using an alternate channel. This outcome effectively defeats the stated purpose of the displacement window.
“T-Mobile has begun notifying frequency coordinators and broadcasters that it intends to commence operations in 2017. Assuming the commission moves quickly to grant T-Mobile’s new licenses, this means that LPTV and translator stations currently serving viewers may be displaced in the next four to five months, with no possibility of operating on an alternative channel — even if channels are available.”
The NAB’s letter concludes: “Commission can help preserve service to viewers by allowing displaced translator and LPTV stations to apply for Special Temporary Authority to operate on alternative channels until the FCC processes displacement applications. While this approach may not help in every case, it would at least allow displaced stations an opportunity to stay on the air where channels are available.”
Comments (1)
Ellen Samrock says:
June 5, 2017 at 9:16 pm
T-Mobile’s letter to the FCC indicates that they plan to deploy their newly-acquired 600 MHz spectrum quickly. Their suggestion of an STA for LPTV/translator stations mirrors the NAB’s but also suggest that low power stations be allowed to go off the air but retain their license for an extended period of time (longer than a year, at least) and that stations may lower their power and/or change antenna patterns in a temporary co-existence arrangement. We’ll see if any of these ideas fly with the FCC.